Rose Quartz and Serenity Named 2016 Pantone Color of the Year

For the first time ever, Pantone has named , Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520) and Serenity (Pantone 13-1520).

“Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times,” according to Pantone’s release.

“In many parts of the world, we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted color trends throughout all other areas of design,” the release continues. “This more unilateral approach to color is coinciding with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity, the consumer's increased comfort with using color as a form of expression, a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged, and an open exchange of digital information that has opened our eyes to different approaches to color usage.”

“Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, in the release.

Pantone says the colors appeal with all finishes, matte, metallic, and glossy, and join well with other colors such as greens, purples, rich browns, and all shades of yellow and pink.

Past colors of the year include:
• Pantone 18-1438 (2015);
• Pantone 18-3224 (2014);
• Pantone 17-5641 (2013);
• Pantone 17-1463 (2012);
• Pantone 18-2120 Honeysuckle (2011);
• Pantone 15-5519 Turquoise (2010);
• Pantone 14-0848 Mimosa (2009);
• Pantone 18-3943 Blue Iris (2008);
• Pantone 19-1557 Chili Pepper (2007);
• Pantone 13-1106 Sand Dollar (2006);
• Pantone 15-5217 Blue Turquoise (2005);
• Pantone 17-1456 Tigerlily (2004);
• Pantone 14-4811 Aqua Sky (2003);
• Pantone 19-1664 True Red (2002);
• Pantone 17-2031 Fuchsia Rose (2001);
• And Pantone 15-4020 Cerulean (2000).